Ensue
/ɪnˈsuː/
Definitions
To happen or occur afterward or as a consequence.
/ɪnˈsuː/
To happen or occur afterward or as a result.
A heated argument ensued after someone accused the other of cheating.
💡 Simply: Imagine you drop a plate. What *ensues*? Usually, a mess! It means something happens as a result of something else.
👶 For kids: When something happens, and then something else happens because of it, that's 'ensue'!
More Examples
The investigation into the scandal will likely result in legal proceedings ensuing.
Heavy rain ensued after the storm clouds gathered overhead.
How It's Used
"The lawsuit ensued after the company was found guilty of negligence."
"A period of political unrest ensued following the election."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
As a result
This is a synonym used to replace 'ensue'.
"The announcement was made, and as a result, everyone started celebrating."
In the wake of
After or following something, often something negative.
"In the wake of the disaster, the community pulled together to support each other."
From Middle French *ensuir* (to follow after), from Old French *ensivre* (to follow), from Latin *insequi* (to follow after), from *in-* (in, on) + *sequi* (to follow).
The word 'ensue' has been used since the 14th century, originally referring to the act of following or pursuing, later evolving to mean to happen or follow as a consequence.
Memory tip
Think of 'ensure,' and imagine something following after it—like the 'sue' part ensuring something else will happen.
Word Origin
"to follow"